PCMEA Warns Delay in Funds Jeopardizes Key Export Event
The Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA) has expressed deep concern over the continued delay in the release of government funds for the 42nd International Handmade Carpets Exhibition, scheduled to be held in Lahore this October, despite repeated appeals. The association warned that the delay has created significant uncertainty for one of Pakistan’s oldest export-oriented industries, putting at risk an event regarded as a key driver of exports, foreign exchange earnings, and international market access.
Association Leaders Issue Joint Statement
In a joint statement, PCMEA Chairman Mian Ateeq-ur-Rehman, Patron-in-Chief Abdul Latif Malik, Exhibition Chairman Riaz Ahmad, Carpet Training Institute (CTI) Chairperson Ejaz-ur-Rehman, and senior members Usman Ashraf, Major (r) Akhtar Nazir, and Saeed Khan said that with only three months remaining before the exhibition, the absence of government support has stalled preparations and left manufacturers and exporters increasingly concerned about the event’s timely organization.
Exhibition Called 'Lifeline' of Handmade Carpet Industry
The association emphasized that the annual international exhibition has, over the years, become the industry’s most important marketing platform, enabling Pakistani exporters to secure export orders worth millions of dollars while introducing handmade carpets to new buyers from across the world. They said the exhibition plays a vital role in strengthening Pakistan’s presence in international markets and sustaining an industry that contributes valuable foreign exchange to the national economy.
Preparations Halted, Promotional Activities on Hold
The office-bearers noted that because the required funds have yet to be released, organizers have been unable to begin formal engagement with regular overseas buyers or extend hospitality packages that are essential for ensuring their participation. As a result, key promotional activities that normally commence months before the exhibition remain on hold.
International Buyers Seek Confirmation, Credibility at Risk
They further stated that international buyers who have consistently participated in previous editions of the exhibition have already started contacting the association to seek confirmation regarding this year’s event. However, the prevailing uncertainty has made it difficult for organizers to provide definitive assurances, creating an uncomfortable situation and affecting Pakistan’s credibility among its international business partners.
Competitor Exhibition Adds Pressure
The association also pointed out that Pakistan’s traditional competitor in the handmade carpet industry organizes a similar international exhibition during the same period each year. Foreign buyers usually plan their business trips by coordinating visits to exhibitions in both countries. The uncertainty surrounding Pakistan’s exhibition, however, has left many buyers hesitant to finalize their travel plans, raising concerns that lower international participation could adversely affect export opportunities and business deals.
Appeal to Top Government Officials
Calling the exhibition the “lifeline” of Pakistan’s handmade carpet industry, the association appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan, and the Prime Minister’s Special Assistant on Commerce Haroon Akhtar Khan to take immediate notice of the matter. The association urged the government to release the required funds without any further delay so that preparations for the exhibition can begin immediately. It stressed that the successful organization of the event is essential not only for supporting Pakistan’s handmade carpet industry but also for promoting exports, attracting international buyers, generating foreign exchange, and reinforcing the country’s reputation in the global carpet market.
